Apacer Share Steno CD311

Essentially a device for storing and sharing your digital images, the Share Steno CD311 from Apacer should prove a handy companion for professional photographers and enthusiasts alike. While you're out and about you can download pictures from your camera or memory card on to the CD311's 40GB of storage, freeing up space for more snaps.

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Essentially a device for storing and sharing your digital images, the Share Steno CD311 from Apacer should prove a handy companion for professional photographers and enthusiasts alike. While you're out and about you can download pictures from your camera or memory card on to the CD311's 40GB of storage, freeing up space for more snaps.

That 40GB equates to about 40,000 images at 3Mp (megapixels) resolution, so this pocket-sized unit should be able to outlast even the most intensive photoshoot. And there's a built-in rechargeable battery, so you don't need to worry about external power - although, unfortunately, it's
not replaceable.

You can't look at your snaps on the mono LCD screen, but adding preview facilities would have put serious pressure on battery life. The CD311's small display is just there to let you manage and delete the files. Big-fingered folk will find the navigation buttons a bit fiddly, but the menu system itself is simple enough.

Setting it up isn't too much effort either. A user manual is included on a CD, so don't panic when you see that the only documentation in the box is a tiny quick installation guide. You'll also find a 14-in-1 card reader in the package, so even if your memory card uses an obscure format it should be supported by the CD311.

And if you're worried about the security of any images you've stored on the Steno, you can protect them with a password.

Share Steno CD311: Specs

USB 2.0 interface

40GB storage space

14-in-1 card reader

220g

128x78x24mm

Windows 98/Me/2000/XP/Mac 10.1.3 and upwards compatible

USB 2.0 interface

40GB storage space

14-in-1 card reader

220g

128x78x24mm

Windows 98/Me/2000/XP/Mac 10.1.3 and upwards compatible

SHOULD I BUY SHARE STENO CD311?

The Share Steno CD311 gives you plenty of storage space and compatibility options but it would have been nice if Apacer had included a colour LCD screen for viewing the images, too. On the other hand, it's understandable that such a major power drain has been left out - after all, you can see the images on your camera or PC, and the CD311 is just a storage device. It does what it needs to do without any fuss, and is easily portable.